Smart Watches... OMG

Samsung Galaxy Gear

Initial Thoughts.
Okay this isn't intended to be a anti-tech rant. Really.  But seeing the new Samsung Galaxy Gear "Smart Watch" is just about to make me vomit.  Do we really need a $299 gadget on our wrist to tell us our phone is ringing? I guess I really don't know. Personally I've been trying to reduce my dependence on electronic gadgetry and I haven't consistently worn a watch for 6-7 years so I may not be the best person to judge.

Innovation
The above said, kudos for Samsung, Apple and others for continuing to innovate, to push the envelope. We need people to think of new and sometimes seemingly crazy ideas. As consumers, as much as I dislike the idea, sometimes we truly *don't* know what we actually need/want.

Reviews 
I am not a tech reviewer. I just like to talk (write) about what I like, don't like, what pops into my head concerning technology. I don't receive or purchase every new gadget to test every function so I am including some useful review links here for those who may want to explore this new niche in the mobile device field out more thoroughly.

Wall Street Journal
Gizmodo
MIT Technology Review

Closing thoughts
My gut feeling is this is a stab at Apple who is rumored to be developing a Smart Watch. Something to take that "innovation" prize away from Apple. In it's current incarnation I can't imagine anyone but those who like attention to be sporting one of these. Come on, it tells you about calls, or texts, etc. Like just listening to your phone ring or ding or chirp wouldn't do that.

Could the Smart Watch eventually have serious functionality? Who am I to say no. But we have to think about some other considerations.

• Security: yet another connected device to carry it's own set of vulnerabilities, etc.
• Cables:   another charger cable, needs charging every day, at least!
• Cost:      $299!!!  and what about stuff to protect from scratches, dings, etc.

Will the possibility of future, serious functionality outweigh some of the drawbacks or will the
Smart Watch go the way of other tech gadgets that just aren't up to snuff.  My feeling is this isn't the one that is a hit out of the park. Unless you are one who just wants to have the latest gadget as a conversation piece I would recommend holding off to see if some serious "need" arises or some killer app is developed that makes the Smart Watch a true needed item.

As always the opinions stated here are mine alone and in no way reflect those of my employer! :-)